Several weeks ago, I wrote a post about ways for children to participate in worship. Not sit in the pews with a children's bulletin and a pack of crayons, but actively participate in meaningful ways. It's important to create a welcoming and inviting space for all who come to worship and plan experiences that include children and youth, as well as adults. This creates a worship environment that is inviting, inclusive, intergenerational, and inspiring. (For more about each of these points, read this post).

Youth participation in worship should not be limited to Youth Sunday.

From serving as worship leader to helping serve Communion, bringing Scripture readings to life or contributing to music ministry, many middle and high school students are capable of participating in and contributing to worship - often, they just need to be asked.

Here are 25 ways for youth to actively participate in worship:

1. Sing an anthem2. Play a bell choir piece3. Sing a combined anthem with adults and/or children4. Have youth choir sing a hymn verse (or descant) by themselves5. Play a bell processional (bonus points if you play and walk in at the same time!)6. Play an instrumental hymn descant7. Play an instrumental solo with a choral anthem8. Sing a solo or duet9. Play an instrumental solo10. Serve as an acolyte11. Serve as worship leader12. Run or assist with sound13. Present drama to depict scripture reading14. Carry in banners during opening hymn15. Write creed or prayer (as an individual or as a group) and lead congregation16. Share mission moment17. Play in an instrumental ensemble (maybe intergenerational)18. Play in praise band19. Sing with praise team20. Teach congregation a new hymn or praise chorus21. Create visuals or art to accompany scripture readings (projected on a screen)22. Design banners, posters, or bulletin covers23. Lead children's time24. Participate in Holy Week service by helping remove items from the sanctuary (paraments, candles, Bible, flowers, etc.)25. Participate in and help lead worship on Scout Sunday (some ideas here)